Meat and Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells

Transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with these Meat and Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells that promise to become an instant family favorite. Imagine plump pasta shells filled with a rich mixture of ground beef, Italian sausage, and multiple types of cheese, all nestled in a bed of marinara sauce.

This recipe combines the ultimate comfort food elements savory meats, creamy cheeses, and perfectly cooked pasta shells into one irresistible dish. Moreover, the combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a decadent filling that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you're craving a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Meat and Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells: A Layered Italian-Inspired Masterpiece

This isn't just another pasta dish it's a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary meal. The combination of ground beef, Italian sausage, and multiple cheeses creates a dish that's both comforting and incredibly satisfying.

Get ready to discover how a few carefully selected ingredients can create a meal that will become a family tradition.

Serving Suggestions:

Your Meat and Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells shines when served with:

• Garlic bread
• Fresh green salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Caesar salad
• Crisp dinner rolls

Pro Tips for the Perfect Meat and Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells:

Pasta Technique: Cook shells just until barely al dente to prevent overcooking in the oven.

Meat Browning: Ensure ground beef and sausage are fully browned and excess grease is drained.

Cheese Mixing: Blend cheeses thoroughly for a consistent, creamy filling.

Resting Period: Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare in advance and refrigerate before baking.

Meat and Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells Recipe Details:

• Preparation time: 30 minutes
• Cooking time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6-8
• Equipment: Large skillet, baking dish, mixing bowls

This Stuffed Pasta Shells recipe brings together the best of Italian-inspired comfort food in one irresistible dish.

Ingredients:

For the Pasta Base:

• 20 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ pound ground beef
• ½ pound mild Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the pasta shells and cook until they are just barely al dente. They will continue cooking in the oven, so you want them slightly firm.
2. Drain the pasta shells and rinse with cool water to stop the cooking process. Set aside and allow to cool while preparing the filling.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until they become soft and translucent.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to become fragrant but not burn.
5. Introduce the ground beef and Italian sausage to the skillet. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly.
6. Season the meat mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the meat is completely browned and no pink remains.
7. Carefully drain any excess grease from the meat mixture and let it cool slightly.
8. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and spread about 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly across the bottom.
9. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and the cooled meat mixture. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
10. Carefully stuff each pasta shell with a generous spoonful of the meat and cheese mixture. Arrange the stuffed shells in the prepared baking dish.
11. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the stuffed shells, ensuring they are well-covered.
12. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the shells.

Ready to Relish!

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Storage Solutions:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently in the oven or microwave
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating

Whether you're feeding a hungry family or looking for the ultimate comfort food, these Meat and Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells deliver maximum flavor and satisfaction in every single bite.

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